Hawaii is a tropical paradise with a rich and diverse culture. Here, you’ll find everything from pulsing nightlife to serene beaches and spectacular volcanoes.
The largest island, Oahu, is known for its world-renowned Waikiki Beach where visitors come to enjoy a range of activities including swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing. A visit to the famous Diamond Head Crater is also a must.
For those seeking to get out in nature, Oahu is home to a variety of state parks and recreational areas such as Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls and Lava Tree State Parks as well as Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park where visitors will be able to learn about the island’s colonial past.
Other popular attractions include the Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church and petroglyph fields. The flora of the island is renowned for its vibrant hues and endemic species such as the state flower, the hibiscus. It is possible to experience Hawaii’s stunning scenery by foot, on horseback or on a helicopter tour.
The islands of Hawaii offer some of the most diverse diving in the world. The underwater scenery is shaped by submarine volcanic eruptions and offers a diverse marine life. Divers can encounter octopus, angelfish, moray eels and green sea turtles. The southern coast of Maui is a particularly good spot for diving and snorkelling, with the lava formations of Ahihi Kinau attracting an abundance of marine life.
A visit to the Hawaiian Islands is not complete without a taste of local food. The cuisine reflects Hawaii’s plantation era, when laborers from around the world brought their favorite dishes with them to the islands. As a result, Hawaii has a unique culinary identity where you can expect to find Puerto Rican pastele alongside Japanese mochiko chicken, Filipino adobo and Korean bibimbap.
Another must-try dish is kalua pig, a meat cooked in soy sauce and served with rice. The iconic dish is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine and can be found in most local restaurants.
One of the most culturally significant experiences is to witness a hula performance, which is often part of a luau (Hawaiian feast). It is common for family members and guests to join in on the dances, chants and songs. The hula was formerly performed at family reunions and to entertain tribal chiefs but has since become more of a performance art.
When planning your trip to Hawaii, don’t forget your camera! The stunning landscape and crystal blue waters are the perfect backdrop for incredible pictures. Make your vacation even more memorable by enlisting the help of a professional photographer to capture the moment. Trekaroo is proud to partner with Flytographer, a network of incredible photographers that are ready to capture your dream vacation.